Vehicle mats, also known as "automobile floor mats", are designed to protect a vehicle's floor from dirt, wear, and salt corrosion.

One major use of a vehicle mat is to keep the car looking clean. Most mats can be easily removed for cleaning and then replaced. Some require fixation points to ensure they remain fixed in position. Mats are generally considered unnecessary in vehicles which are permanently fitted with rubber carpets - such as commercial vehicles (trucks, vans) and some off road and agricultural vehicles.

Vehicle mats are an interior car parts accessory that dealerships generally include with the purchase of a vehicle. However, with the surge in leasing organizations and sales through such channels, some cars are offered without them.

Vehicle floor mats come in a variety of shapes and materials. They may feature spikes, grooves, or caps to capture dirt and water, and be made from the synthetic rubber (often referred to as "vinyl" or "thermoplastic") or textile materials.

Vehicle mats generally come in two options: either rubber or carpet fabric. These differ in a number of ways, and each material provides advantages and disadvantages when compared to the other. For instance, carpet mats are generally tufted and have a rubberized anti-slip backing, while rubber mats are heavier-duty and more durable.

Also, some car mats are the plain color of rubber, while many others contain branded company logos, cartoon characters, or advertisements. They can also come in a wide range of colors.

The terms "universal" and "custom fit" differentiate between floor mats that will fit a multitude of different cars versus those that are specifically designed to fit only one chassis.

Some styles of mats may feature small, flexible spikes on their underside to grip carpeting underneath. A more common method of retention, though, is a fitting system that hooks, clips, or twists into an anchor point already positioned on the vehicle floor. This anchor is typically pre-installed by the OEM but some aftermarket manufacturers of "custom fit" mats also provide this.